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Whelan warns fans over Martinez

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has warned the club’s fans that they could risk his departure if they were to call for the sacking of boss Roberto Martinez.

Manager Martinez was under pressure after Wigan’s first two Premier League games of the season in which they lost twice and also conceded 10 goals.

But following victory at Tottenham, that pressure has eased slightly.

“I rate Roberto highly and said to the fans, if you want his head, you’ll get mine as well,” Whelan told BBC Sport.

The Latics opened their season with a 4-0 loss to Blackpool at the DW Stadium and followed that up with a 6-0 defeat to Chelsea. before winning 1-0 at White Hart Lane on Saturday.

Following those two defeats, some bookmakers made Martinez, who joined the club as manager at the start of last season, the favourite to become the first Premier League manager to be sacked this term.

But Whelan, who appointed Martinez on a three-year deal in June 2009, has given the 37-year-old Spaniard his unconditional support.

“Had they insisted, and even if we would have lost at Tottenham and they start crying for his head and had he asked to go, I would definitely have resigned with him,” added Whelan, who is also Wigan’s owner, on BBC Radio 5 Live.

In 1995, Whelan bought Wigan – then in the old third division – with the club winning promotion to the Premier League 10 years later.

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West Brom sign Austrian Scharner

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

West Bromwich Albion have signed Austrian international Paul Scharner.

The 30-year-old, who was a free agent after leaving Wigan in the summer, has signed a two-year deal with the club.

“He’s a proven Premier League player, having performed consistently for the past four-and-a-half years,” said Baggies manager Roberto Di Matteo.

Scharner, who played in every outfield position for Wigan apart from left-back, joined the Latics from Norwegian side Brann in January 2006.

He made 155 appearances, scoring 17 goals before becoming West Brom’s ninth permanent signing of the summer.

“At the start of the window, we looked at several players who were becoming free agents and had considerable experience in top-flight football either in England or abroad,” said West Brom’s sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth.

“I think we’ve had some real success in this area with the arrivals of Paul, Steven Reid and Pablo Ibanez.”

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Tottenham 0-1 Wigan

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Hugo Rodallega’s second-half strike earned Wigan their first points of the season after a resilient performance away to lacklustre Tottenham.

Rodallega smashed in a fine cross-shot as the Latics shrugged off two heavy home drubbings to record their first victory at White Hart Lane.

Steve Gohouri also hit the bar for the visitors with a volley while Antolin Alcaraz missed a glorious chance.

Spurs offered little but Jermain Defoe twice went close in the first half.

First the England forward collected Benoit Assou-Ekotto’s pass and spun brilliantly in the box only to see his well-struck shot superbly saved by Ali Al Habsi.

Roberto Martinez

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Martinez delighted with Wigan win

And Defoe then turned sharply on the edge of the area and showed pace and power to get away from two defenders before flicking a shot just wide with the outside of his right boot.

But in truth Spurs were well below par and Wigan thoroughly deserved their win for a tenacious display in which they showed commendable character.

On their last visit to Tottenham in November 2009,

the Latics suffered a 9-1 hammering with Defoe scoring five.

And Wigan’s confidence can hardly have been helped after their 8-0 mauling at Chelsea on the final day of the 2009-10 season was followed up by 4-0 and 6-0 defeats at the DW Stadium in their opening two matches of the 2010-11 campaign.

But Wigan started much the brighter and could easily have taken advantage in the opening stages of a Spurs side looking like their

midweek Champions League exploits

had caught up with them.

The north Londoners lacked bite and sharpness in the opening 20 minutes and nearly found themselves trailing but Gohouri’s belting six-yard volley crashed off the bar and to safety from Alcaraz’s fine nod back.

Harry Redknapp

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Redknapp disappointed with ’sloppy’ Spurs

Dream-like defending from Assou-Ekotto – which twice saw the left-back caught in possession in the opening 15 minutes – could also have easily led to Wigan goals.

But the home side suddenly woke up around the mid-way point of the first period and it was Defoe – still in the side despite fears over his ongoing groin injury – who was their main threat, with two typically alert efforts.

Neither chance found the back of the net and when Defoe’s strike partner, Peter Crouch, was forced off injured at the interval Spurs boss Harry Redknapp took the opportunity to try to liven things up.

However Crouch’s replacement, Roman Pavlyuchenko, offered little in a dreary 25 minutes after the break which saw the north Londoners continually frustrated by Wigan’s organisation.

And as frustration among the home fans grew it was the visitors who started to look more likely to break the deadlock.

Alcaraz somehow blazed over from six yards for a contender for miss of the season and Gomez volleyed over.

But with Spurs still breathing a collective sigh of relief, Rodallega did find the back of the net for the visitors with a searing shot across keeper Carlo Cudicini.

Finally the home side woke from their slumbers and Tom Huddlestone sent a volley just past the post and Defoe saw another fizzing strike also go just wide.

In a frantic finish Niko Krancjar and Michael Dawson were both denied by the excellent Al Habsi.

But Tottenham could not find an equaliser and slipped to their first home defeat in 18 league and cup games.

Live text and stats

Saturday, 28 August 2010

Premier League

90:00+3:03 Header by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham) from centre of penalty area (12 yards), missed left. Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi
(Wigan).
90:00+2:43 Foul by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan) on Dos Santos Giovani (Tottenham). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Niko Kranjcar (Tottenham)
from own half, resulting in open play.
90:00+1:18 Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
89:13 Foul by Niko Kranjcar (Tottenham) on Hugo Rodallega (Wigan). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Jordi Gomez (Wigan) from
right wing, passed.
88:38 Jordi Gomez takes a short corner. Jordi Gomez decides to take a short corner.
88:14 Corner from right by-line taken short left-footed by Jordi Gomez (Wigan).
87:43 Handball by Roman Pavlyuchenko (Tottenham). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan) from own half, resulting
in open play.
87:33 The ball is swung over by Gareth Bale.
86:34 Michael Dawson takes a shot. Ali Al Habsi makes a save.
Correction – 85:47 Substitution James McArthur comes on in place of Ronnie Stam.
Correction – 85:47 Niko Kranjcar takes a shot. Short corner worked by Niko Kranjcar, Ali Al Habsi makes a save. Corner taken by Gareth Bale.
85:47 Save by Ali Al Habsi.
85:47 Substitution James McArthur joins the action as a substitute, replacing Ronnie Stam.
85:47 Niko Kranjcar takes a shot. Corner taken short by Niko Kranjcar, save by Ali Al Habsi. Corner from right by-line taken by
Gareth Bale.
85:05 Hugo Rodallega is ruled offside. Gareth Bale takes the indirect free kick.
84:34 Short corner taken by Jordi Gomez from the right by-line.
83:46 Shot by Jermain Defoe (Tottenham) drilled right-footed from right side of penalty area (18 yards), missed right. Goal kick
taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
82:10 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Niko Kranjcar (Tottenham) to near post, clearance by Emmerson Boyce
(Wigan).
81:53 Hugo Rodallega concedes a free kick for a foul on Ledley King. Ledley King takes the direct free kick.
81:15 Shot by Tom Huddlestone (Tottenham) left-footed from left side of penalty area (18 yards), missed right. Goal kick taken long
by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
79:50 Assist on the goal came from Mohamed Diame.
79:50 GOAL – Hugo Rodallega:Tottenham 0 – 1 Wigan Goal scored by Hugo Rodallega from deep inside the penalty area to the bottom left corner of the goal. Tottenham 0-1 Wigan.
79:18 Hugo Rodallega delivers the ball, Effort on goal by Jordi Gomez from inside the area goes harmlessly over the bar.
78:38 Hugo Rodallega produces a cross, Shot by Antolin Alcaraz from inside the six-yard box clear the bar.
76:41 Free kick taken right-footed by Tom Huddlestone (Tottenham) from right channel (20 yards), missed right. Goal kick taken long
by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
76:41 Booking Maynor Figueroa (Wigan) booked for dissent.
76:41 Foul by Antolin Alcaraz (Wigan) on Niko Kranjcar (Tottenham).
75:59 Defending throw-in by Wilson Palacios (Tottenham).
75:13 Outswinging corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Niko Kranjcar (Tottenham) to near post, clearance by Jordi Gomez
(Wigan).
75:01 Short corner taken by Gareth Bale.
73:36 Hendry Thomas takes the direct free kick.
73:36 Booking Niko Kranjcar receives a caution.
73:31 Hendry Thomas fouled by Niko Kranjcar, the ref awards a free kick.
72:18 Substitution Tottenham substitution: Aaron Lennon replaced by Dos Santos Giovani (tactical).
72:05 Jordi Gomez has an effort at goal from outside the box which goes wide left of the target.
71:30 Roman Pavlyuchenko is caught offside. Free kick taken by Hendry Thomas.
69:43 Foul by Wilson Palacios on Jordi Gomez, free kick awarded. Maynor Figueroa restarts play with the free kick.
69:31 Attacking throw-in by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham).
69:18 Attacking throw-in by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham).
68:55 Attacking throw-in by Gareth Bale (Tottenham).
68:25 A cross is delivered by Ronnie Stam.
68:03 Attacking throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
67:18 Substitution Jordi Gomez joins the action as a substitute, replacing Mauro Boselli.
63:36 Attacking throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
62:32 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Niko Kranjcar (Tottenham) to far post, clearance by Maynor Figueroa
(Wigan).
61:12 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Gareth Bale (Tottenham) to far post, clearance by Steve Gohouri
(Wigan).
59:53 The ball is delivered by Aaron Lennon, blocked by Maynor Figueroa.
58:44 Aaron Lennon fouled by Hendry Thomas, the ref awards a free kick. Gareth Bale produces a shot on goal direct from the free
kick, blocked by Hendry Thomas. Gareth Bale takes the inswinging corner, clearance by Mohamed Diame.
58:24 Shot by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham) right-footed from left channel (30 yards), blocked by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
57:21 Hendry Thomas challenges Niko Kranjcar unfairly and gives away a free kick. Free kick taken by Niko Kranjcar.
56:51 Aaron Lennon crosses the ball, clearance made by Steve Gohouri.
56:13 Attacking throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
55:11 Cross by Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), clearance by Steve Gohouri (Wigan).
54:05 Cross by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham), resulting in ball out of play. Defending throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
53:15 Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
52:40 Gareth Bale sends in a cross, Steve Gohouri manages to make a clearance.
51:26 Roman Pavlyuchenko crosses the ball, save by Ali Al Habsi.
51:20 Defending throw-in by Gareth Bale (Tottenham).
50:14 Aaron Lennon delivers the ball, Roman Pavlyuchenko takes a shot. Save by Ali Al Habsi.
49:59 Maynor Figueroa takes a shot. Save made by Carlo Cudicini.
48:29 Free kick awarded for a foul by Ledley King on Mauro Boselli. Hugo Rodallega has an effort direct from the free kick, Gareth
Bale gets a block in.
47:45 Niko Kranjcar takes a short corner.
47:00 Goal kick taken long by Carlo Cudicini (Tottenham).
45:47 Ronnie Stam crosses the ball, clearance made by Wilson Palacios.
45:01 The referee gets the second half underway.
45:01 Substitution Roman Pavlyuchenko comes on in place of Peter Crouch.
45:01 Substitution Niko Kranjcar on for Benoit Assou-Ekotto.
Half Time
45:00+3:09 It is the end of the first-half.
45:00+2:29 Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
45:00+0:35 Mauro Boselli concedes a free kick for a foul on Ledley King. Tom Huddlestone takes the free kick.
42:26 Michael Dawson takes the free kick.
42:26 Booking Booking for Tom Huddlestone for unsporting behaviour.
42:15 Booking Hendry Thomas booked for unsporting behaviour.
42:09 Free kick awarded for a foul by Hendry Thomas on Aaron Lennon.
40:16 Foul by Hendry Thomas (Wigan) on Peter Crouch (Tottenham). Free kick crossed left-footed by Gareth Bale (Tottenham) from right
wing, clearance by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
39:11 Jermain Defoe has an effort at goal from just inside the box that misses to the right of the goal.
37:53 Shot by Hugo Rodallega (Wigan) right-footed from left channel (20 yards), missed right. Goal kick taken short by Carlo Cudicini
(Tottenham).
37:14 Attacking throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
36:52 Handball by Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham). Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Hendry Thomas (Wigan) from left channel,
passed.
36:31 Defending throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
35:02 Tom Huddlestone concedes a free kick for a foul on Mohamed Diame. Hugo Rodallega takes the free kick.
34:26 The ball is crossed by Aaron Lennon, Emmerson Boyce manages to make a clearance.
34:14 Corner from left by-line taken short left-footed by Gareth Bale (Tottenham).
33:40 Gareth Bale takes a outswinging corner to the near post, clearance made by Ali Al Habsi.
33:35 Younes Kaboul delivers the ball, clearance by Steve Gohouri.
32:29 Free kick awarded for an unfair challenge on Gareth Bale by Emmerson Boyce. Free kick crossed by Younes Kaboul, save by Ali
Al Habsi.
31:34 Cross by Gareth Bale (Tottenham), save (caught) by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
31:18 Attacking throw-in by Gareth Bale (Tottenham).
30:26 Inswinging corner taken by Gareth Bale from the right by-line, clearance by Steve Gohouri.
29:01 Shot on goal comes in from Hugo Rodallega from the free kick, blocked by Younes Kaboul.
29:01 Booking Michael Dawson is shown a yellow card for unsporting behaviour.
28:55 Foul by Michael Dawson on Mohamed Diame, free kick awarded.
28:45 Attacking throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
27:37 Benoit Assou-Ekotto produces a cross.
26:45 Gareth Bale takes the outswinging corner, clearance made by Maynor Figueroa.
26:29 Attacking throw-in by Gareth Bale (Tottenham).
25:28 Peter Crouch gives away a free kick for an unfair challenge on Hendry Thomas. Hendry Thomas takes the direct free kick.
24:49 Effort from just outside the box by Hugo Rodallega goes over the bar.
24:31 Mauro Boselli takes a shot. Carlo Cudicini makes a save.
23:10 Attacking throw-in by Gareth Bale (Tottenham).
22:54 Shot by Jermain Defoe (Tottenham) drilled right-footed from centre of penalty area (12 yards), save (parried) by Ali Al Habsi
(Wigan).
22:42 Attacking throw-in by Gareth Bale (Tottenham).
19:54 Cross by Gareth Bale (Tottenham), save (caught) by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
17:28 Tom Huddlestone challenges James McCarthy unfairly and gives away a free kick. Free kick taken by Ali Al Habsi.
17:21 Attacking throw-in by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham).
14:50 Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
14:17 Corner taken by Gareth Bale played to the near post, Emmerson Boyce makes a clearance.
14:01 Aaron Lennon sends in a cross, clearance by Steve Gohouri.
13:40 Attacking throw-in by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham).
13:23 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Gareth Bale (Tottenham) to near post, resulting in open play.
13:04 Gareth Bale takes a shot. Steve Gohouri gets a block in.
12:47 Attacking throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
12:04 Outswinging corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Ronnie Stam (Wigan) to centre, resulting in open play.
10:45 Defending throw-in by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham).
9:40 Attacking throw-in by Younes Kaboul (Tottenham).
8:56 Foul by Hendry Thomas (Wigan) on Jermain Defoe (Tottenham). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Michael Dawson (Tottenham)
from right channel, resulting in open play.
7:52 Goal kick taken long by Carlo Cudicini (Tottenham).
7:04 Shot by Mohamed Diame (Wigan) right-footed from left channel (30 yards), blocked by Tom Huddlestone (Tottenham). Inswinging
corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Hugo Rodallega (Wigan) to far post, shot by Steve Gohouri (Wigan) volleyed
right-footed from centre of penalty area (12 yards), hit bar.
6:14 Goal kick taken long by Carlo Cudicini (Tottenham).
5:39 Defending throw-in by Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham).
4:07 Jermain Defoe is flagged offside by the assistant referee. Ali Al Habsi takes the free kick.
3:28 Attacking throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
3:18 Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
2:35 Free kick awarded for an unfair challenge on Gareth Bale by Emmerson Boyce. Direct free kick taken by Gareth Bale.
2:05 Attacking throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
1:14 Hugo Rodallega has an effort at goal from outside the area missing to the wide left of the goal.
0:34 Inswinging corner from left by-line taken right-footed by Hugo Rodallega (Wigan) to near post, clearance by Michael Dawson
(Tottenham).
0:11 Foul by Michael Dawson (Tottenham) on Hugo Rodallega (Wigan). Direct free kick taken left-footed by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan)
from left wing, passed.
0:00 The ref blows the whistle to start the match.

Live text and data provided by The Press Association.

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Birmingham end N’Zogbia interest

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Wigan’s Charles N’Zogbia will not be joining Birmingham after failing to agree personal terms.

The prolonged transfer looked sealed when Wigan accepted Birmingham’s “club-record fee” for the French winger.

But talks between the 24-year-old and the Blues “broke down irrevocably”, according to the St Andrews outfit.

“We did everything that was asked of us and then the goalposts were moved at the last minute,” said Birmingham manager Alex McLeish.

“It was very important to us as a club to stick to our principals and look after the long-term interests of Birmingham City as we are custodians of the club.

“We remain ambitious and committed to adding extra quality to the playing squad but this deal became one that was not in the interests of the club.

“The Board worked with me extremely hard to try and get this one over the line and I thank them for their support.”

A statement on the club’s website added: “Blues remain absolutely determined to signing players who want to come to the West Midlands and play for Birmingham for all the right reasons and senior club personnel will continue to work extremely hard to that end.”

N’Zogbia started out in English football at Newcastle following his 2004 move from Le Havre.

He moved to Wigan in January 2009 after falling out of favour at St James’ Park and was voted player of the season by players and fans at the DW Stadium last term.

The winger made his France debut earlier this month in Les Bleus’ friendly defeat in Norway.

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Spurs manager offers no excuses

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Harry Redknapp

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Redknapp disappointed with ’sloppy’ Spurs

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp said his side’s midweek Champions League exertions are no excuse for their home Premier League humbling by Wigan.

Spurs reached the group stages of Europe’s elite competition on Wednesday but Redknapp said that does not explain the lacklustre 1-0 loss to the Latics.

“Why should it be?” Redknapp said. “You should come full of confidence after winning 4-0 in a Champions League game.

“You should feel fantastic, not have a hangover or feel lethargic.”

Jermain Defoe twice went close to giving Spurs the lead in their best spell before the break and they also piled forward in a frantic finale.

But Wigan created the better chances and took the points thanks to Hugo Rodallega’s fierce strike 10 minutes from the end, and Redknapp admitted Wigan deserved their win.

“People have got to work harder to get in the game,” he added. “Too many today were too easily marked out of the game.

“We lacked the guile to break them down. You miss Luca Modric in these games. When the games are tight, he takes the ball for you.

“We were poor and we got what we deserved.

“Credit to them they worked hard, closed us down and we really couldn’t come up with any answers as to how to open them up. That was disappointing on the back of a great week.

“We started sloppy in the first five minutes. We kept giving the ball away and we never got out of it; it was a poor performance.

“They defended great, made it difficult for us and hit us on the break. We were devoid of ideas in many areas.”

Roberto Martinez

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Martinez delighted with Wigan win

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez was thrilled with the result but also the performance.

The two previous league games against Blackpool and Chelsea this season had seen Wigan concede 10 goals, and Martinez praised his side’s response to those defeats.

“I’m delighted,” he told BBC Sport. “But more than that I think today was a real mental test. We had to be a team today and we showed that in abundance.

“In a difficult moment for the group with all the distractions. I was extremely proud of the type of performance. We looked in control and deserved the win.

“Today was a clear example of what is needed in a performance.

“We had good chances to show our dominance but on the other side we had to work and defend really well because Spurs were always going to put us under pressure.”

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McLeish’s N’Zogbia bid irks Wigan

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez

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Players hold too much power – Martinez

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has criticised Birmingham counterpart Alex McLeish for making his interest in French winger Charles N’Zogbia public.

McLeish confirmed he had made a new bid for N’Zogbia on Wednesday but Martinez has claimed the offer was less than the 8m Wigan had already rejected.

“We had a couple of offers in May and now the offer is less than the one we had in May,” said Martinez.

“Then they come out publicly in the press. It doesn’t look serious to me.”

Sunderland are also believed to be interested in the former Newcastle man, who was left out of the 4-0 opening-day defeat against Blackpool after Martinez criticised his attitude.

Blues boss McLeish said N’Zogbia is one of a handful of signings he wants to make before next Tuesday’s transfer deadline but the Scot did not reveal the size of Birmingham’s offer for the 24-year-old.

“We have made another bid for Charles and we wait to see if it’s successful or not,” stated McLeish.

“We’re awaiting Wigan’s response. At the same time we’re in the hands of the gods in terms of the other offers.

“There are a few other players. Again, it’s difficult getting them over the line – that’s going to be the hardest part.”

But Martinez, who reinstated N’Zogbia to his side for their 6-0 home defeat by Chelsea on Saturday, is adamant he will not allow the player to leave on the cheap.

“The valuation is clear. If the team matches it he can speak with them. Until that happens he is a Wigan Athletic player,” explained Martinez.

“The transfer window brings you that distraction but when you get other managers talking about your players, that is really disappointing – to unsettle players and the press with no substance behind it.

“I don’t know the reason behind it, whether it is to get the fans’ hopes high in your football club, I don’t know.

“Charles has had a difficult few days and it is our fault. We should not allow the transfer window to be open when the competition is ongoing.

“I don’t think it is respectful to the league or the fans and it needs to be considered by the authorities.”

Martinez also moved to dismiss suggestions that there was an ongoing rift between himself and the player, with N’Zogbia coming on as substitute in the last few minutes of his side’s 3-0 Carling Cup win at Hartlepool on Tuesday.

“Players are human beings and Charles has had to deal with a lot of things and the transfer window doesn’t help players to be human beings,” added Martinez.

“He hasn’t done anything wrong. He is still a Wigan Athletic player and he has been perfect in his attitude. We won’t punish him because a third party wants to speak out to the press.”

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Hartlepool 0-3 Wigan

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Wigan bounced back from conceding 10 goals in two Premier League games to ease past League One Hartlepool and into the Carling Cup third round.

Sam Collins turned Hugo Rodallega’s free-kick into his own net to put Wigan ahead after only three minutes.

Jordi Gomez doubled the lead when his stunning 25-yard free-kick crashed in off the underside of the bar.

And Victor Moses ensured the score had a flattering look when he fired in from the edge of the box.

Wigan’s under-fire boss Roberto Martinez had made six changes to the side hammered 6-0 by Chelsea on Saturday and his players gave him the result he was looking for, even though the performance still left room for improvement.

Martinez has goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi, on loan from Bolton, to thank for keeping his side ahead in the first half.

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Al Habsi had replaced Chris Kirkland in goal for Wigan and he pulled off a stunning fingertip save to deny Joe Gamble in the 28th minute.

Paul Murray struck a dangerous, bobbling shot which Al Habsi did well to hold first time and he saved again from Gamble from a 25-yard drive.

But Martinez made two changes in the 65th minute, introducing Victor Moses and James McCarthy for Rodallega and James McArthur respectively and that was enough to spur Wigan into life as they pressed on to put hard-working Hartlepool out of the competition.

Live text and stats

Tuesday, 24 August 2010

Carling Cup

72:24 Defending throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
71:22 Shot by Jordi Gomez (Wigan) right-footed from right channel (20 yards), missed right. Goal kick taken short by Scott Flinders
(Hartlepool).
69:39 Booking Ali Al Habsi (Wigan) booked for time wasting.
69:11 Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
68:55 Mauro Boselli (Wigan) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Scott Flinders (Hartlepool) from own half,
resulting in open play.
67:52 Corner from the right by-line taken by Jordi Gomez, Gary Liddle manages to make a clearance.
66:15 Substitution Hartlepool substitution: Adam Boyd replaced by Denis Behan (tactical).
65:00 Substitution Wigan substitution: Hugo Rodallega replaced by Victor Moses (tactical).
65:00 Substitution Wigan substitution: James McArthur replaced by James McCarthy (tactical).
63:39 Attacking throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
61:21 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Ben Watson (Wigan) to centre, foul by Steven Caldwell (Wigan) on
Steven Haslam (Hartlepool). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Scott Flinders (Hartlepool) from own half, resulting in
open play.
60:10 Corner taken by Ben Watson, Antony Sweeney manages to make a clearance.
59:52 Hugo Rodallega takes a shot. Blocked by Gary Liddle.
57:56 Attacking throw-in by Evan Horwood (Hartlepool).
56:32 Substitution (Hartlepool) makes a substitution, with Colin Larkin coming on for James Brown.
55:01 Andy Monkhouse gives away a free kick for an unfair challenge on Jordi Gomez. Hendry Thomas restarts play with the free kick.
52:47 Foul by Adam Boyd (Hartlepool) on Antolin Alcaraz (Wigan). Direct free kick taken right-footed by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan) from
own half, resulting in open play.
51:20 Attacking throw-in by Evan Horwood (Hartlepool).
48:00 Attacking throw-in by Steven Haslam (Hartlepool).
46:45 Corner taken by Joe Gamble, Emmerson Boyce makes a clearance.
45:22 Defending throw-in by Hugo Rodallega (Wigan).
45:01 The second half has started.
Half Time
45:00+2:02 The first half comes to an end.
45:00+0:56 Evan Horwood takes a shot.
45:00+0:25 Hendry Thomas challenges Joe Gamble unfairly and gives away a free kick. Steven Haslam delivers the ball from the free kick
right-footed from right wing, clearance made by Steven Caldwell.
43:02 Defending throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
41:24 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Evan Horwood (Hartlepool) to centre, header by Andy Monkhouse (Hartlepool)
from centre of penalty area (12 yards), over the bar. Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
39:23 Defending throw-in by Maynor Figueroa (Wigan).
39:08 Inswinging corner taken by Evan Horwood, Antolin Alcaraz manages to make a clearance.
38:14 Hugo Rodallega (Wigan) caught offside. Indirect free kick taken right-footed by Scott Flinders (Hartlepool) from own half,
resulting in open play.
35:08 Shot by Paul Murray (Hartlepool) left-footed from right side of penalty area (18 yards), missed left. Goal kick taken long
by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
32:20 Unfair challenge on Mauro Boselli by Sam Collins results in a free kick. Jordi Gomez restarts play with the free kick.
27:35 Shot by Adam Boyd (Hartlepool) right-footed from right channel (25 yards), over the bar. Goal kick taken long by Ali Al Habsi
(Wigan).
26:39 Shot by Joe Gamble (Hartlepool) right-footed from right channel (20 yards), save (tipped over) by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan). Inswinging
corner from right by-line taken right-footed by Gary Liddle (Hartlepool) to centre, clearance by Steven Caldwell (Wigan).
24:11 Shot by Jordi Gomez (Wigan) left-footed from right channel (18 yards), save (caught) by Scott Flinders (Hartlepool).
22:48 Attacking throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
22:11 Header by Antony Sweeney (Hartlepool) from centre of penalty area (12 yards), save (caught) by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
20:44 Inswinging corner taken by Evan Horwood from the right by-line, Hugo Rodallega manages to make a clearance.
19:37 Joe Gamble takes the direct free kick.
19:37 Booking James McArthur goes into the book.
18:56 Free kick awarded for a foul by James McArthur on Gary Liddle.
18:22 Inswinging corner taken left-footed by Evan Horwood, clearance made by Antolin Alcaraz.
17:58 Attacking throw-in by Sam Collins (Hartlepool).
17:31 Attacking throw-in by Sam Collins (Hartlepool).
15:09 Attacking throw-in by Evan Horwood (Hartlepool).
13:21 Shot by Paul Murray (Hartlepool) left-footed from left channel (20 yards), save (caught) by Ali Al Habsi (Wigan).
12:15 Free kick awarded for a foul by James Brown on Maynor Figueroa. Free kick taken by Maynor Figueroa.
9:48 Attacking throw-in by Emmerson Boyce (Wigan).
8:06 Attacking throw-in by Evan Horwood (Hartlepool).
6:51 Free kick awarded for an unfair challenge on Adam Boyd by Antolin Alcaraz. Free kick taken by Steven Haslam.
3:53 Inswinging corner from right by-line taken left-footed by Evan Horwood (Hartlepool) to centre, save (caught) by Ali Al Habsi
(Wigan).
2:36 GOAL – Sam Collins:Hartlepool 0 – 1 Wigan Own goal by Sam Collins. Hartlepool 0-1 Wigan.
2:34 Assist (cross) by Jordi Gomez (Wigan) from right channel.
2:04 Paul Murray challenges Hugo Rodallega unfairly and gives away a free kick. Jordi Gomez crosses the ball in from the free kick.
0:50 Foul by Steven Caldwell on James Brown, free kick awarded. Paul Murray takes the free kick, Shot from long range by Evan Horwood
misses to the right of the target.
0:27 Attacking throw-in by Steven Haslam (Hartlepool).
0:06 Shot by Mauro Boselli (Wigan) right-footed from own half (35+ yards), over the bar. Goal kick taken long by Scott Flinders
(Hartlepool).
0:00 The referee gets the game underway.

Live text and data provided by The Press Association.

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Birmingham increase N’Zogbia bid

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Birmingham have confirmed they have made an improved bid for Wigan winger Charles N’Zogbia.

Blues manager Alex McLeish did not reveal the size of the offer, with the club already having had an 8m bid rejected for the 24-year-old Frenchman.

“We have made another bid for Charles and we wait to see if it’s successful or not,” said the Scottish boss.

“We’re awaiting Wigan’s response. At the same time we’re in the hands of the gods in terms of the other offers.”

Sunderland are also believed to be interested in the France international and former Newcastle player, who was left out of the 4-0 opening day defeat against Blackpool after Wigan manager Roberto Martinez criticised his attitude.

However, Martinez dismissed suggestions that there was a rift between himself and the player, with N’Zogbia coming on as substitute in the last few minutes of his side’s 3-0 Carling Cup win at Hartlepool.

McLeish said N’Zogbia is one of a handful of signings he wants to make before the Tuesday 31 August deadline.

“There are a few other players. Again, it’s difficult getting them over the line – that’s going to be the hardest part,” he added.

“The deadline comes on Tuesday at 5pm and I’m sure it will be a mad scramble again. Getting players in place is going to be the most difficult thing.

“I don’t have to name my 25-man squad until after the window closes, so that will be dictated by players who arrive or don’t arrive.”

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Wigan complete Caldwell signing

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Wigan have signed Scotland defender Steven Caldwell on a one-year contract.

The 29-year-old, who was a free agent after leaving Burnley in the summer, earned a deal after impressing while training with Wigan in recent weeks.

Latics boss Roberto Martinez said: “He is a leader on and off the field and a totally committed defender who will add fantastic competition to the squad.”

Steven, who played in Wigan’s pre-season victory over Dundee United, is the brother of Latics captain Gary.

“Gary has of course told me what the club is like and how impressed he has been with the set-up here,” stated Steven.

“I am delighted to have sorted out my future and I can’t wait to get started and fight for my place.”

He began his career as a trainee at Newcastle before moving to Blackpool, Bradford and Leeds on short loan deals.

Steven joined Sunderland in the summer of 2004, making more than 80 appearances for the Black Cats before switching to Burnley in January 2007. He went on to play more than 100 games for the Clarets.

The Caldwells will be the first brothers to play for Wigan since Warren and Wayne Aspinall in the mid 1980s.

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Hartlepool v Wigan

Filed under: Wigan Athletic by: admin

Live text and stats

Tuesday, 24 August 2010

Carling Cup

Carling Cup second round
Venue: Victoria Park Date: Tuesday, 24 August Kick-off: 1945 BST
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 live, BBC local radio & highlights on The League Cup Show

Hartlepool are waiting on Uruguayan midfielder Fabian Yantorno, who is still struggling with a back injury.

Defender Neil Austin is out with an ankle injury, while midfielder Ritchie Humphreys is not yet match-fit after knee and Achilles problems.

Wigan could give a debut to former Burnley defender Steven Caldwell.

The Scotland international, who was a free agent after leaving Turf Moor in the summer, completed a one-year deal on Monday.

Head-to-head

Ten of the 22 competitive meetings between these clubs have been drawn, with each side winning six. They have never met in the League Cup.

Hartlepool have failed to beat Wigan in nine meetings, drawing five and losing four since a 4-3 home victory in the old Third Division in October 1991.

Their most recent meetings were in 1996/97, when both fourth-tier fixtures were drawn.

Hartlepool

They put out Championship Sheffield United 2-0 in the first round, and are hoping now to reach the third round for the second time in three seasons.

Hartlepool, who have never been beyond the fourth round, have now eliminated higher-division opposition for five years in a row.

The North East club have found the back of the net in each of their last eight League Cup matches, and failed to score in only one of their last 17 League Cup ties.

Wigan

Wigan were runners-up to Manchester United in the 2006 Carling Cup final.

However, the following season, League One Crewe ended their involvement in the second round. The Latics have fallen at this hurdle in three of the last four years.

The Carling Cup could be a welcome diversion for Wigan, who have been thumped in both their opening Premier League fixtures: 4-0 at home to Blackpool and 6-0 at home to Chelsea.

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